Government consultation - Introducing a minimum learning period for learner drivers

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Open consultation

Introducing a minimum learning period for learner drivers (category B driving licence)

The Department for Transport (DfT) is seeking views on introducing a minimum time period between passing a theory test and taking a practical driving test. Our consultation covers driving tests taken for a category B licence, the standard licence used to operate a car.

introducing a minimum number of supervised practical driving hours

  • creating a mandated learning syllabus

  • the ways that any required learning could be conducted

Young drivers, particularly teenagers, are statistically more likely to be involved in collisions compared to older, generally more experienced drivers. That is why insurance companies use age as a factor in determining risk, leading to higher premiums for young and novice drivers.

The human brain, particularly the frontal lobe, which is heavily involved in decision-making and risk assessment, continues to develop into the mid-20s. Executive function is associated with the frontal lobe and is a term used to describe a set of processes that enable us to regulate thoughts and behaviour. These processes include inhibition, working memory and set shifting, which is the ability to switch between or modify tasks. Development of the frontal lobe and executive functioning continues until early adulthood.

Evidence suggests that young drivers with inefficient executive function:

  • make more errors

  • engage in more dangerous driving behaviours

  • are at a higher risk of collisions[footnote 5]

  • are more likely to be distracted while driving[footnote 6]

For these reasons, we are particularly concerned with introducing measures to improve safety for young novice drivers.

However, evidence also suggests that novice drivers of all ages are at increased risk of collisions due to a lack of driving experience[footnote 7]. For this reason, we are open to considering introducing measures to improve safety for all novice drivers. 

Driving requires a number of skills, including vehicle control, hazard perception and decision-making and learners can benefit from experiencing different driving conditions, such as driving in the dark, adverse weather and heavy traffic. An MLP could provide drivers with more time to develop these skills and experience.  

Currently, a learner driver may apply for a practical driving test as soon as they acquire a provisional licence and pass the theory test. We are consulting on introducing a minimum time period between passing a theory test and being able to take a practical driving test. We also welcome views on introducing a minimum number of hours, a mandated learning syllabus and how this learning can be conducted.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/introducing-a-minimum-learning-period-for-learner-drivers/introducing-a-minimum-learning-period-for-learner-drivers-category-b-driving-licence?fbclid=IwY2xjawRkLQ9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeZW7o1MEHKfpil718Ks1l7Jm8uUTVdDRk7hFiGFFmmeeGwyLeML4nXouNXBE_aem_kbovUqbBeP1DUqw1WiQurw#background-to-the-consultation

Permits available for private practice at Turweston Aerodrome

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If your son or daughter is starting to drive in their or your own car and you are looking for a quiet off road place to start you can get a 2 hour permit by using the calendar below.

permits cost £20.00 for a 2 hour slot.

They must be 17+ and insured on the vehicle. You must be 21+ and have been driving for at least 3 years on a full UK licence.

If they are under 17 they can only drive here when having a lesson in our dual controlled car with an approved DVSA instructor